Arzu Geybulla
Istanbul-based Azerbaijani writer
Longtime ruler of autonomous enclave resigns on health concerns, but observers maintain his exit was on Baku’s orders.
With little oversight, toxic disinformation and threats thrive on the encrypted platform.
Illicitly obtained data has long been used to intimidate and blackmail independent voices.
The regime is exploiting social media to inflict reputational damage on its critics.
Independent, dissenting Azerbaijani voices have never been so ostracised.
Endemic bribery and poor services are hampering the country’s response.
Participants hope to boost political involvement and awareness.
Female reporters routinely intimidated by blackmail, sexual assault and harassment.
The costs of Azerbaijan putting its name on the map are high, but the benefits are not clear.
State repression means that something as simple as a call for gender equality cannot be tolerated.